Creamy Spinach Artichoke Orzo Recipe
Introduction
Creamy Spinach Artichoke Orzo is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender orzo pasta with fresh spinach, artichokes, and creamy cottage cheese. It’s a quick and easy meal perfect for busy weeknights or as a satisfying side dish.
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup artichoke hearts, chopped (canned or frozen, drained)
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, stir the cooked orzo with chopped spinach, artichokes, and cottage cheese until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Tips & Variations
- For extra creaminess, stir in a splash of milk or cream with the cottage cheese.
- Add minced garlic or a pinch of red pepper flakes for added flavor.
- Use fresh artichokes if available, cooked and chopped.
- Top with grated Parmesan or mozzarella before serving for a cheesy touch.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a small amount of water or milk to loosen the creaminess if needed.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen spinach can be used. Thaw and drain it well before stirring into the orzo to avoid excess moisture.
Is cottage cheese necessary, or can I use something else?
Cottage cheese adds creaminess with less fat. You can substitute ricotta, cream cheese, or even Greek yogurt for a different texture and flavor.
PrintCreamy Spinach Artichoke Orzo Recipe
A quick and creamy spinach artichoke orzo dish combining tender pasta with nutritious greens and tangy cottage cheese for a comforting and healthy meal.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Orzo
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
Vegetables
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup canned artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
Dairy
- 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Orzo: In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water or vegetable broth to a boil. Add 1 cup of orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions, typically around 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain any excess liquid if necessary.
- Prepare the Vegetables: While the orzo is cooking, chop 2 cups of fresh spinach and 1 cup of canned artichoke hearts. Ensure the artichokes are well drained to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
- Combine Ingredients: Once the orzo is cooked and drained, return it to the pan over low heat. Stir in the chopped spinach and artichokes, allowing the residual heat to gently wilt the spinach, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Cottage Cheese: Remove the pan from heat and fold in 1 cup of low-fat cottage cheese thoroughly until the mixture becomes creamy and evenly combined.
- Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if desired with salt and pepper. Serve warm as a nutritious main or side dish.
Notes
- Use vegetable broth instead of water for more flavor.
- For a richer texture, substitute cottage cheese with cream cheese or ricotta.
- Can add garlic or onion powder for extra flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Keywords: spinach artichoke orzo, creamy orzo, quick pasta recipe, healthy pasta dish, cottage cheese pasta
